Eid-el-Fitr: Tinubu Calls for Patriotism, Unity Among Nigerian Muslims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Muslim faithful in Nigeria on the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, calling for renewed patriotism, compassion, and commitment to national unity as the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end.

Tinubu’s message was conveyed in a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, where the President urged Muslims to uphold the core values of Ramadan, including piety, empathy, sacrifice, and selflessness.

According to the statement, the President emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan should extend beyond the fasting period, especially at a time when Nigeria requires collective responsibility and unity to overcome its challenges.

“We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” Tinubu said.

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He further encouraged Muslims to extend acts of charity to the less privileged, regardless of faith, as a demonstration of unity and shared humanity. The President also urged Islamic leaders to use the occasion of Eid to offer prayers for peace, stability, and prosperity in the country.

The Ramadan fast in 2026 began on February 18, coinciding with Ash Wednesday observed by Christians, marking a rare overlap of significant religious periods for both faiths.

Authorities in Saudi Arabia, which plays a central role in Islamic calendar announcements, confirmed that the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted, leading to the declaration that Eid-el-Fitr would be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The announcement aligns with decisions by Islamic authorities in Nigeria, including the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, which traditionally determines the start and end of Ramadan based on moon sighting.

Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance, economic recovery, and national development, urging citizens to remain hopeful and supportive of ongoing reforms.

He concluded by calling on all Nigerians to embrace unity across religious and ethnic lines, stressing that peace and cooperation remain essential for national progress.

Eid-el-Fitr: Tinubu Calls for Patriotism, Unity Among Nigerian Muslims

Tinubu, Starmer Meet as UK Backs £746m Lagos Port Upgrade Deal

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday held high-level talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer as both countries move to deepen Nigeria–UK bilateral relations and finalise a £746 million port infrastructure deal.

According to a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the meeting is expected to culminate in the signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering trade, investment, defence cooperation, and cultural exchange.

The engagement underscores Nigeria’s push to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), strengthen economic diplomacy, and accelerate the modernisation of critical infrastructure.

At the centre of Tinubu’s UK visit is a £746 million financing agreement involving UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Finance.

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The deal will fund the refurbishment and upgrade of two of Nigeria’s busiest seaports:

• Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays)

• Tin Can Island Port Complex

Officials say the project will focus on rehabilitating ageing port infrastructure, improving cargo handling efficiency, and reducing congestion — long-standing challenges that have hindered Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The upgrades are also expected to enhance trade facilitation, revenue generation, and logistics efficiency, positioning Nigeria as a stronger maritime hub in West Africa.

Beyond infrastructure, discussions between Tinubu and Starmer also covered security cooperation, regional stability, and economic partnerships, reflecting a broader strategic alignment between both countries.

Analysts note that the involvement of UK Export Finance signals strong UK government backing for the project, which could open the door for more British investments in Nigeria’s transport, energy, and infrastructure sectors.

The agreement is considered one of the largest recent external financing deals in Nigeria’s port sector, with potential to create jobs, boost exports, and improve the ease of doing business.

Tinubu, Starmer Meet as UK Backs £746m Lagos Port Upgrade Deal

9 Things King Charles III Said About Nigeria

King Charles III delivered warm remarks about Nigeria during a state banquet at Windsor Castle, highlighting the deep historical ties, cultural connections, and contributions of Nigerians to the United Kingdom and the wider world.

Here are nine key things the monarch said about Nigeria:

1. Strong Historical Ties
King Charles III emphasized the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, describing it as one built on centuries of shared history, engagement, and mutual influence.

2. Shared Values and Partnership
He noted that both nations are united by common values, including a commitment to progress, resilience, and continued cooperation in global affairs.

3. Nigeria’s Role in the Commonwealth
The King acknowledged Nigeria as one of the most significant members of the Commonwealth, underlining its importance in the continued growth and relevance of the organisation.

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4. Contribution of Nigerians in the UK
He praised the Nigerian diaspora in the United Kingdom for their positive impact across various sectors, describing them as a vibrant and dynamic community.

5. Nigerian Professionals in the NHS
King Charles highlighted the vital role played by Nigerian doctors and healthcare workers in the UK’s National Health Service, noting their indispensable contributions to healthcare delivery.

6. Cultural and Human Connections
He referenced the strong cultural links between both countries, including the presence of Nigerians in sports, arts, and other areas of public life in the UK.

7. Nigeria’s Global Influence
The monarch acknowledged Nigeria’s influence as a major African nation with a growing global presence, particularly through its youthful and energetic population.

8. Commitment to Security and Stability
King Charles III noted Nigeria’s role in addressing regional security challenges, especially in West Africa and the Sahel, and the importance of international partnerships in tackling such issues.

9. Enduring Friendship Between Both Nations
He reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Nigeria and the UK, expressing optimism that the relationship will continue to strengthen in the years ahead.

The remarks reflect a broader diplomatic tone of cooperation and mutual respect, reinforcing the historical and contemporary ties between both countries.

9 Things King Charles III Said About Nigeria